Entry Level qualifications

Entry Level qualifications are available at three sub-levels - 1, 2 and 3. Entry Level 3 is the most difficult.

GCSEs - General Certificate of Secondary Education

These are the main qualifications that you could expect to take at the end of Year 11, but they can also be studied in schools and colleges through day or evening classes, or by distance learning. GCSEs are available in the traditional academic or work-related subjects. GCSE (short courses) are equivalent to half a full GCSE but are only available in a limited number of subjects in some schools.

In England, reforms to GCSEs being phased in include new subject content and a new grading system.

A and AS Levels

A and AS Level qualifications are Level 3 qualifications. AS Levels are freestanding qualifications and no longer count towards the full A Level.

In England, reforms to A Levels being phased in include new course subjects and revised course content for existing subjects.

Degrees, Foundation Degrees and HNDs

Degrees, Foundation Degrees and HNDs are higher education qualifications that you could study at universities, some further education colleges and colleges of higher education. You might then choose to study towards a Postgraduate or other higher level qualifications.

This page is intended to give only a brief overview of the major qualifications available and doesn't include every type of qualification available. For more information, visit the Ofqual (the Office of Qualifications and Examinations Regulation) website. Ofqual is the Government body responsible for regulating qualifications, examinations and assesments in England.